Mallards Ride Gherson to 4-1 Win on Kerry Toporowski Night
November 27, 2004 - International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Quad City Mallards News Release
Moline, IL - Rookie Robert Gherson turned aside 43 shots in earning his fourth professional victory in a 4-1 Mallards win on Saturday at The MARK. Joe Dusbabek earned first star honors with a goal and two assists on the evening.
The highlight of the Mallards win was the pre-game jersey retirement ceremony in honor of Kerry Toporowski. The Mallards retired number 77, and the beloved enforcer gave an emotional speech that included a moving message to this year's Mallards. After thanking his family, friends and Mallards teammates, Toporowski turned to the current Mallards and delivered the memorable message, "Remember, you're here to win a championship." The Mallards rode the emotional wave to a victory over a heated rival, the Fort Wayne Komets.
After a scoreless first period, Dave Stewart opened the scoring when he deflected Terry Hollinger's shot past Tyler Masters to give the Mallards a 1-0 lead at the 5:13 mark of the second period. Stewart's goal was his fourth of the season and his third in his last five games. The Mallards moved ahead 2-0 when Dusbabek scored with just seven seconds left in the second period.
In the third, the Komets cut the lead to 2-1 on Tom Nelson's second goal of 2004-05.
The Mallards salted the game away with two goals late in the third. Sergei Durdin sent a rocket over Masters' shoulder on the power play to give the Mallards a 3-1 edge, and Jason Deskins scored into an empty net to cap the scoring. With the goal, Deskins has now scored in three consecutive games.
The Mallards return to action on Friday at Kansas City. Game time is 7:30 p.m. as the teams meet in Kansas City for the first time this season. The First Capital Financial Pre-Game Show starts on Fox Sports Radio AM 1230 at 7:05 p.m. After the game, stay tuned for the Allstate Insurance Del Newton/Christy Cox Post-Game Show.
The Mallards return home on Saturday to host the Flint Generals. All fans in attendance will receive a $20 gift certificate redeemable at Riddle's Jewelers. All fans in attendance are eligible for a $2,000 shopping spree from Riddle's. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. at The MARK of the Quad Cities. Tickets are still available at The MARK box office or via phone at (563) 326-1111.
International Hockey League 2 Stories from November 27, 2004
- Mallards Ride Gherson to 4-1 Win on Kerry Toporowski Night - Quad City Mallards
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